Bacon lovers, rejoice! If you’re looking for the perfect way to cook bacon that is crispy, delicious, and hassle-free, you’ve come to the right place. Cooking bacon in an air fryer is one of the easiest and cleanest methods, delivering that ideal balance of crunch and chew without the mess of stovetop frying. Whether you’re making breakfast, adding a crispy topping to a salad, or just indulging in a bacon snack, this air fryer method is a game-changer.
Why This Recipe is Perfect for You
This recipe is ideal for anyone who loves bacon but hates the splatter and smoke that often come with traditional cooking methods. With an air fryer, you get perfectly cooked bacon with minimal cleanup. This method is also faster than baking it in the oven, making it an excellent option for busy mornings. Plus, with a simple trick—adding water or bread to the bottom of the air fryer—you can significantly reduce smoke, keeping your kitchen fresh and comfortable.
Ingredients
- 8 strips of thick-cut bacon
- 1/4 cup of water (to reduce smoking)
- Alternative: A slice of bread instead of water
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Air fryer
- Tongs
- Paper towels
- Plate for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Air Fryer
Before adding the bacon, preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C) for 5 minutes. This ensures even cooking from the start.
2. Reduce Smoke
To prevent smoke from forming, pour 1/4 cup of water into the bottom of the air fryer basket. Alternatively, place a slice of bread in the basket to absorb excess grease.
3. Arrange the Bacon
Lay the bacon strips in a single layer in the preheated air fryer basket. Do not overlap the bacon, as this will prevent even cooking and crispiness.
4. Cook to Perfection
Cook the bacon according to thickness:
- Thick-cut bacon: 12-16 minutes
- Standard-cut bacon: 8-10 minutes
Halfway through, use tongs to flip the bacon for even crispiness.
5. Drain and Serve
Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess grease. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Air Fryer Bacon
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer: Bacon needs space to crisp up properly.
- Adjust cooking time: Air fryer models vary, so check your bacon a few minutes before the suggested time.
- Use parchment paper: If your air fryer tends to get messy, a small sheet of air fryer-safe parchment paper can help.
- For extra crispy bacon: Cook at 350°F (175°C) instead of 320°F (160°C) but check frequently to avoid burning.
Storage and Reheating
Storing Leftover Bacon
If you have leftover bacon (which is rare!), store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Reheating Methods
- Air Fryer: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 2-3 minutes.
- Microwave: Place on a paper towel and heat in 10-second intervals.
- Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.
Variations and Swaps
- Turkey Bacon: Cook at 300°F (150°C) for 8-10 minutes.
- Maple Glazed Bacon: Brush with maple syrup before cooking.
- Pepper Bacon: Sprinkle freshly cracked black pepper before air frying.
- Brown Sugar Bacon: Coat strips lightly with brown sugar for a caramelized finish.
Best Food & Drink Pairings
- Breakfast: Pair with eggs, avocado toast, or pancakes.
- Salads: Crumble over Caesar salad for extra crunch.
- Drinks: Enjoy with coffee or a Bloody Mary for a classic brunch experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I cook bacon in the air fryer without preheating?
Yes, but preheating helps cook the bacon evenly and reduces overall cooking time.
Why is my air fryer smoking?
Excess grease can cause smoke. Using water or bread in the basket will help prevent this.
Can I stack bacon in the air fryer?
No, stacking will cause uneven cooking. Always cook in a single layer.
Can I use thin-cut bacon?
Yes! Thin-cut bacon will cook faster, typically around 6-8 minutes.
How do I make extra crispy bacon?
Increase the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
Final Thoughts
Making bacon in the air fryer is a quick, easy, and mess-free way to enjoy crispy, delicious bacon every time. Whether you’re making a hearty breakfast or simply craving a crispy snack, this method is a must-try. If you loved this recipe, share it with your friends and subscribe to our blog for more easy and delicious air fryer recipes!
